Dhansiri River Swells Beyond Danger Level
Flood misery grips Assam’s Golaghat district as the Dhansiri river flood in Golaghat crosses critical levels. The river has surged over a metre beyond its danger mark, inundating several low-lying areas.
Officials confirm that continuous torrential rains since early July have contributed to the river’s rapid rise. The worst-hit areas include Numaligarh, Morongi, and surrounding villages.
Widespread Devastation Across Villages
Floodwaters have swept through more than 50 villages, leaving homes submerged and farmlands destroyed. Also, over 800 families have reportedly been displaced, forced to seek shelter in makeshift relief camps set up by district authorities.
Golaghat Deputy Commissioner Pranabjyoti Goswami told reporters:
“The situation is grim. Continuous rain and the swollen Dhansiri have caused widespread damage. Rescue teams are working round the clock.”
Residents recount terrifying experiences of rising water levels overnight. Many managed to save only essential belongings before fleeing their homes.
Major Roads, Croplands, and Infrastructure Hit
The flooding has disrupted road connectivity in several areas, halting transportation and supply chains. Furthermore, the Numaligarh-Golaghat route is partially submerged, affecting movement of relief materials.
Farmers face huge losses as paddy fields and vegetable crops lie submerged. Livestock has also been swept away in many villages.
The Agriculture Department estimates significant economic damage, though a detailed assessment is underway.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) units have been deployed in full strength. Thereafter, rescue boats are ferrying stranded residents from flooded villages to safer locations.
Medical teams are on standby to handle potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Relief camps have been stocked with food, drinking water, and basic medical supplies.
Pranabjyoti Goswami added:
“Our priority is to save lives. We have shifted hundreds of people to safer places. We urge everyone to avoid venturing into floodwaters.”
Government Appeals for Caution and Support
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media to assure residents of government support. He urged people to cooperate with authorities and follow safety advisories.
The state government has directed officials to assess damage swiftly and begin rehabilitation efforts. Moreover, financial aid and relief materials are being mobilised.
Sarma tweeted:
“Our thoughts are with people affected by the Dhansiri river flood in Golaghat. All efforts are being made to ensure safety and quick relief.”
Climate Concerns Surface Again
Experts say extreme rainfall patterns and unchecked deforestation in catchment areas are worsening flood risks in Assam. Also, the Dhansiri river basin, crucial for both ecology and livelihoods, remains vulnerable to sudden surges.
Environmentalists warn that without sustainable flood management plans, such devastation will repeat each year.
Call for Immediate Action
Local NGOs and civil society groups have appealed for urgent donations of food, medicine, and clothing for affected families.
Residents in Golaghat remain anxious as weather forecasts predict more rain in the coming days. However, authorities continue to monitor the river’s levels and maintain rescue readiness.
The Dhansiri river flood in Golaghat stands as another grim reminder of nature’s fury and the urgent need for sustainable flood management in Assam. As rescue operations continue, authorities call for unity and resilience to overcome this crisis.